A decorative layer applied to the surface of walls made of natural or artificial stone, called stone wall, is applied to give a visually appealing and durable finish. Due to its versatility, aesthetic view and especially capability of bringing texture and depth to your spaces, it has lately become a popular architectural feature in both interior and exterior designs. Stone Wall Cladding is a process of fixing thin layers of stones on a base called substrate like wood, concrete or brick. The stones used to clad can be marble, limestone, slate, sandstone or more modern manufactured stone veins.
Stone wall cladding can be used for many purposes, not only for aesthetic purposes but also to increase function like insulation or weather protection. It provides a uniquely natural beauty to any space creating the illusion of a solid stone structure without the expense or challenges of building one from the ground up.
Types of Stone Wall Cladding
There are several types of stone wall cladding, each offering a different look and set of benefits:
- Natural Stone Cladding: It is accomplished by slapping thin slabs of real stone pieces cut real small onto (slapped onto) the wall surface. The authentic natural stone look comes with a unique texture, color and pattern in every piece. Granite, marble, sandstone and slate are common materials. The advantages of natural stone cladding are durability, no weathering and timeless appeal. However, it is often the most expensive and the heaviest of the options, and often requires stronger support structures.
- Manufactured Stone Veneer: This is the artificial, cement aggregate and pigment mix product called also cultured stone created as imitation of natural stone. It is much lighter, and cheaper than natural stone, making it a good choice for many homeowners and builders. A wide range of colors and styles of manufactured stone veneers are available which give you greater flexibility in design.
- Stacked Stone Cladding: Another popular option is stacked stone which creates a rugged textured surface by using what amounts to thin strips of stone stacked together. This cladding is often used to create feature walls, fireplaces and outdoor facades, giving a modern, rustic feel to any room.
- Stone Tiles: Flat pieces of natural or manufactured stone that are used on walls in an application similar to ceramic wall tiles are referred to as stone tiles. The tiles come in different sizes and can be used to build complex patterns or enormous, unfilled surfaces.
Stone wall cladding has many benefits and applications incorporating both face and surface mount systems.
Aside from the aesthetic aspects, stone wall cladding has so many benefits, apart from self cleaning walls. Here are some key advantages:
- Durability: Stone clad building is very durable and good to wear and tear. With next to no upkeep, natural stones such as granite or slate will last decades. Because of their resistance to weather conditions, they are good for exterior applications.
- Aesthetic Appeal: The natural beauty of stone cladding has a great visual look when incorporated in any type of space. All this makes walls richer, adds color and texture and makes them feel more luxurious. Stone cladding is great for just about any style of design either traditional or contemporary and can fit in with just about every setting.
- Versatility: There are different ways we can use stone cladding, from exterior walls and facades to interior feature walls, fireplaces and bathrooms to name just a few. It’s versatile and can work in any decor, from rustic, industrial or modern.
- Thermal Insulation: Stone is a really good insulator so it plays a major role in regulating indoor temp. Used as an exterior cladding, it can contribute an additional layer of protection by helping your home stay cooler in summer and warmer in winter.
- Low Maintenance: Another plus point of stone cladding is that it requires little maintenance. It won’t require frequent painting or sealing like some others, and it is resistant to pests, mold and mildew. It's usually OK to clean using a mild detergent and water, periodically.
- Added Value: Stone cladding can increase the value of a property as you install. A premium feel and some character adds to the home or building making it desirable to buyers.
Installation Process
Preparation of the surface precedes the steps of installing stone wall cladding. The wall must be cleaned, dried and in structurally viable condition. Weatherproofing may be necessary for exterior applications, to stop moisture seeping behind cladding. The stones are stuck to the wall using a mortar or adhesive to which grout is applied between the stones if necessary.
A stone cladding installation is recommended to hire professionals, who will make the application proper and give it that longevity. However, these can be dealing with if the installation is not proper as the tiles are likely to come off, there might be water infiltration, and there will be spaces between the entire floor.
What Is Stone Wall Cladding?
Stone Wall Cladding gives a classic brick look for homes, with a more economic cost.
The cladding can be used in a number of places, from inside to outside. Popular applications include:
- Exterior Facades: To building exteriors, stone cladding adds elegance and character, enabling them to stand out and enhance curb appeal of the building.
- Feature Walls: Stone cladding can be used indoors to add an eye catcher as a wall of living rooms, hallways, or bedrooms.
- Fireplaces: Because of its natural warmth and texture, stone is an ideal cladding material for fireplaces, providing a comfortable, yet elegant quality.
- Bathrooms and Kitchens: Bathrooms and kitchens also use stone cladding to add that luxurious, spa like experience.
The decision to incorporate stone wall cladding within your home or building project will always be a timeless choice, whether it’s for a property redesign or refurbishment. Stone cladding is the perfect material to use as it’s durable and has a wide range of design options that can transform any space into something truly special. Are you trying to find high quality stone wall cladding? The Stone Evolution can provide a great array of materials as well as professional installation services to suit your design needs.
